Today the Church commemorates St Christopher Magallanes, Priest, and Companions Martyrs. The beginning of the twentieth century was a time of social problems and political unrest in Mexico. With the Constitution of 1917, the Mexican government sought to drive the Catholic Church out of the country. But many devout Catholics continued to practice their faith in secret. And many dedicated Mexican priests risked their lives in ministering to the underground or hidden Church.

Padre Christopher Magallanes was one of those priests. He belonged to the Cristeros Movement. This was an organization of Catholic priests and laypeople who had the courage to stand up to the anti-Catholic government during the 1920s. Padre Magallanes opened an underground seminary at Totatiche. Here with other priests he preached the Gospel in secret and celebrated Mass for the faithful. The people knew they could go to Padre Christopher to receive the sacraments and to be strengthened in their faith during those difficult times of persecution.

Government authorities finally arrested Padre Christopher Magallanes and put him in prison. People could hear their beloved priest cry out with conviction from his jail cell, “I am innocent and I will die innocent! With all my heart I forgive those responsible for my death, and I ask God that the shedding of my blood will bring peace to our divided Mexico!”

Padre Christopher was put to death with twenty-one other diocesan priests and three laymen. They were all members of the Cristeros Movement. Pope John Paul II canonized Padre Christopher and the other martyrs on May 21, 2000. (iMissal, Saint a Day)

St. Christopher will help us to be true to our faith, even when it doesn’t seem “popular.” His story also helps us to be grateful that we are able to practice our faith in freedom.

O Blessed Mother Mary, Queen of Martyrs, intercede for us. Hail Mary full of grace…

Be one and be holy in Christ,

Father Vincent-Vuong Nguyen

St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church

Houston, TX